Cat anal glands: disease symptoms, treatment, and prevention

Common problems with cat anal glands

Your cat's anal glands can become infected, blocked, or even develop an abscess. Here are some of the most common issues:

Impacted anal glands

The most common anal gland problem in cats is caused by clogging or blockage to the duct or tube that's used to empty the sac. This can lead to a build-up of pressure and can cause pain. This can make it painful for your cat to poo and, therefore, could lead to constipation.

Anal gland infections

A build-up of bacteria in the anal sac can cause infection. Left untreated, this infection may cause an abscess, so it's important to get your cat to the vet as quickly as possible.

Abscesses in the anal glands

The most painful of the three conditions, an abscess, is a swollen capsule of pus. These often burst, and you may see blood and pus around your cat's bottom. Abscesses will need to be flushed out and may need antibiotics.

Tumours

Very rarely, anal sac cancers can be seen, but this is much less likely than the above problems.

How to tell if your cat needs glands expressed

If you spot any of these signs in your cat, visit your vet, as they may need their anal glands expressed:

• Pain — your cat may find it painful to poo or to sit down.
• Swelling — you may notice swelling on the sides of her bottom or be able to feel hard masses in this area. The anal sacs sit at the 4 and 8 o'clock position on your cat's bottom.
• Scooting — a common sign is to see your cat dragging their bottom along the ground.
• Tail chasing — they may reach for their tail more than usual.
• Licking or biting — they may repeatedly lick or bite the area around her tail and back end.
• Discharge — you may see or smell a smelly discharge from the back end, which may contain blood and/or pus.

"A build-up of bacteria in the anal sac can cause infection. Left untreated, this infection may cause an abscess, so it's vital to get your cat to the vet as quickly as possible."

Treating anal sac disorders in cats

Treating anal gland disorders in cats normally requires more than one approach. These include:

• Resolving the immediate issue
• Managing any underlying causes
• Preventing future problems

Anal gland disorders can include impaction, infection, abscesses, and in rare cases, tumours. Here's an in-depth look at how these conditions are treated:

Initial examination

Treatment begins with a thorough examination by your vet. They'll check your cat's anal glands to determine the specific problem—whether it's impaction (where the sacs are full but can't empty), infection, or an abscess (a more severe infection that's led to the formation of a pus-filled lump). If a tumour is suspected, further diagnostic steps will be necessary.

Treatment of impaction

Manual expression

The most common treatment for impaction is the manual expression of the anal sacs. Your vet will gently squeeze the sacs to expel their contents. Your vet can do this, and while it might be uncomfortable for your cat, it provides immediate relief. If this process is too uncomfortable for your cat, or the glands are very impacted, your vet may recommend that your cat be sedated so they can be flushed.

Dietary changes

Increasing fibre in your cat's diet can help create bulkier, firmer stools, which can help naturally express the anal sacs when your cat defecates.

Treatment of abscesses

Flushing

An abscess may require flushing under sedation or general anaesthesia.

Antibiotics and pain relief

Like with infections, antibiotics will be used to treat the underlying bacterial cause, and pain relief will be provided to help manage your cat's discomfort.

Treatment of tumours

Biopsy and diagnosis

If a tumour is suspected, a biopsy will be taken for analysis. The treatment plan will depend on the type of tumour and whether it's benign or malignant.

Surgical removal

In many cases, the recommended treatment will be surgical removal of the tumour, usually along with the affected anal sac(s).

Additional therapy

For malignant tumours, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be considered based on your cat's specific situation and overall health.

Aftercare and prevention

Diet and hydration

Ensuring your cat has a high-fibre diet and stays well-hydrated can help maintain regular bowel movements and reduce the risk of future impactions.

Regular vet check-ups

Regular examinations can help catch any recurrence early. Your vet may also show you how to check your cat's anal sacs at home and express them if necessary, although this is not recommended without proper training. Overexpression of the glands can lead to inflammation and further problems, so glands should only be expressed when necessary rather than as a routine event.

Weight management

Overweight cats are at higher risk for anal sac disorders, so keeping your cat at a healthy weight can help prevent problems.

Monitoring

After treatment, it's crucial to monitor your cat for signs of recurrence, such as scooting, excessive licking of the anal area, or signs of discomfort. Prompt attention to these signs can help catch and address any issues early.

Treating anal sac disorders in cats involves a combination of direct treatment of the current condition and strategies to prevent future problems.

Need more advice on anal gland problems in cats?

Cat anal gland problems can be uncomfortable and painful for your pet, but with early detection and proper care, most issues can be easily managed. If you notice a strong cat anal gland smell or discharge, these may be signs of infection, impaction, or abscesses, which require immediate veterinary attention. Left untreated, these issues can worsen, leading to more discomfort for your cat.

Regular vet check-ups are essential for preventing cat anal gland problems. By ensuring your cat receives routine wellness exams, you can catch any potential issues early and keep your pet healthy and comfortable. If you're concerned about your cat's anal glands or have noticed unusual symptoms, book an appointment with your vet today.

For expert advice on anal gland problems in cats, get in touch with your local vet. Find your nearest vet using our find a vet page, or speak to a vet online using our video vet service.